Misty Copeland

The Heisman Trophy Trust selected celebrated ballet dancer and advocate Misty Copeland as the recipient of the 2024 Heisman Humanitarian Award.

Copeland, a groundbreaking figure in the world of ballet, became the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2015. Beyond her illustrious career, Copeland’s work as an advocate for children of color through her Misty Copeland Foundation, founded in 2021 to bring diversity, equity and inclusion through dance, especially in under-resourced communities.

The foundation’s signature program, BE BOLD, stands for Ballet Explorations Ballet Offers Leadership Development. The program strives to address the gap in afterschool programs and limited access to formal dance instruction, particularly in communities of color. By offering a holistic dance education, the program aims to bring more people of color into the world of ballet and other dance forms. This free program features five linked components: Introductory Ballet, Health & Wellness, Music for Ballet, Mentoring, and Tutoring. BE BOLD serves girls and boys ages 5-12. 

“Misty Copeland’s leadership and advocacy for youth empowerment align perfectly with the Heisman’s mission of perseverance, excellence, leadership, and community,” said Mike Comerford, President of the Heisman Trophy Trust.

“Through BE BOLD and future initiatives of the Foundation, I’m excited to bring the beauty of the arts to those who need it most,” said Misty Copeland.